Accuracy and Precision

Front

What is the definition of accuracy?

Back

Accuracy refers to how close a measured value is to the actual (true) value.

Front

What is the definition of precision?

Back

Precision refers to how close measurements are to each other, regardless of whether they are close to the actual value.

Front

If a set of data is both precise and accurate, what does that mean?

Back

It means the data points are close to each other and also close to the true value.

Front

What does it mean if a measurement is neither accurate nor precise?

Back

It means the measurements are not close to each other and not close to the true value.

Front

Give an example of a situation that is precise but not accurate.

Back

If a scale consistently shows 5 kg when the actual weight is 10 kg, the measurements are precise (consistent) but not accurate.

Front

What is an example of a situation that is accurate but not precise?

Back

If a dartboard player hits the bullseye once but misses the target in other throws, the hit is accurate but not precise.

Front

How can you improve the accuracy of a measurement?

Back

You can improve accuracy by calibrating instruments and using more reliable measurement techniques.

Front

How can you improve the precision of a measurement?

Back

You can improve precision by taking multiple measurements and using more refined instruments.

Front

What is the relationship between accuracy and precision?

Back

Accuracy and precision are related but distinct; a measurement can be accurate without being precise and vice versa.

Front

What is an example of a precise measurement?

Back

A set of measurements like 2.01 m, 2.02 m, and 2.00 m are precise because they are close to each other.